Arsenal have signed Brazil international André Santos. Photograph: Turkpix/PA

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Fenerbahce's Brazil international defender André Santos on a "long-term contract".

The 28-year old, who has won 22 caps for his country since making his debut in the 2009 Confederations Cup, has previously played for Corinthians, Figueirense, Flamengo and Atlético Mineiro.

The Arsenal manager, Arsène Wenger, who is also expecting to complete a deal for the Germany international Per Mertesacker, told the club's website: "Santos is a quality player, with the ability to both defend well and get forward and help with attacks. He has experience in the Champions League and for Brazil and has proven he can deliver at the highest level. We welcome Santos to the club and look forward to him having a big impact for us."

Santos said: "I am delighted to have signed for Arsenal. It was one of my dreams to play for a major European football club and I have accomplished this. I am very happy to be part of this team.

"All the Brazilians who came to this club spoke wonders about it and I am delighted to be part of the Arsenal family."